Category Archives: In Ground Swimming Pools

For any homeowner planning to install an in-ground swimming pool, there are plenty of tasks on the to-do list. One step that some people fail to think about is removing trees from the area. If you’re considering an in-ground pool, read on for three reasons to have an expert remove excess trees in your landscape — before they cause problems for your pool.

Free Up Space

Even the simplest in-ground pool designs require plenty of space. For example, even if you decide to go with a relatively small 10-by-10-foot pool, an experienced pool builder will still need to design an adequate concrete deck. In addition, many homeowners decide to build a patio to go along with their in-ground swimming pool. These areas enhance the guest experience. Often, creating this space requires clearing old trees, and homeowners need to find the right landscaper to do the job for them.

Prevent Debris

Most pool companies that do not specialize in landscaping don’t consider the impact of surrounding trees on your in-ground swimming pool. However, it’s important to consult a landscaper with expertise in tree removal before choosing a pool company. No one will enjoy swimming in a pool filled with sticks, leaves and other debris from surrounding trees. You, the homeowner, also won’t enjoy the constant work of cleaning this foliage from your in-ground pool. Take care of the trees in your pool landscape before they become a real problem.

Consider Lighting

Don’t forget about lighting when planning your pool design. In addition to in-ground lights within your pool, you may want to install lighting infrastructure above your pool deck. Before installing landscape lighting, make sure no trees are in a location where they may block light from reaching the pool surface. Your landscaper can also help you figure out if there are old trees that may hinder your ability to install outdoor lighting fixtures in the first place.

Contact Blue Tree

You want your family and friends to enjoy the experience of swimming in your in-ground pool. Don’t let those old trees get in the way of your ideal pool design. Contact Blue Tree Landscaping today and see how our experienced, friendly landscapers can help turn your dream of having an in ground-swimming pool into reality. Our tree removal services have pleased many customers in the Philadelphia area. Call today for a free quote.

Winterizing your property requires paying careful attention to your lawn. Most households remove autumn leaves from the lawn to prepare for winter. Unraked leaves can suffocate your lawn if left out through the winter. A layer of leaves can prevent healthy lawn growth the following year. The easy way to take care of your lawn is to remove the leaves with a leaf-blower or a rake. Rakes, however, offer the added benefit of removing thatch – dead grass tissue – from your lawn. Raking your lawn yourself can be a tiring and long process. Try hiring a landscaper if you don’t have time to rake the lawn yourself. Landscapers can help prepare your lawn for winter by testing your soil for pH and adding sulfur or lime as needed. It also helps to over-seed the lawn in the fall, preparing it to grow abundantly come warmer weather.

Winterizing Your Pool

Winterizing your pool can be more work than expected. A pool installation or landscape professional can be a big help. A week before closing, you must balance the pH of the water. Then, remove skimmer baskets, wall fittings, cleaners, solar blankets, and ladders, clean the pool, lower the water level, drain and winterize the plumbing, and cover the pool. These complicated steps often require the help of a professional. The process for in-ground pools also presents a more significant challenge than above ground pools. Swimming pool installation experts and landscapers can help. Often people that install pools know them best – they can recommend the best maintenance and make sure your pool is in good shape to survive the winter.

Additional Landscaping

Get any landscaping you need done before the winter! You also need to winterize gardens, shrubs, and trees if you want them to survive the winter and continue growing large and healthy come springtime. Spreading mulch, preening shrubs and bushes, protecting bulbs, and removing invasive weeds makes for a healthier garden and yard come spring. In wintertime, it’s often harder to get landscaping services. The ground hardens, making it more difficult to install landscape lighting, retaining walls, fences, or gardens.

Keeping Your Yard Healthy In Philadelphia’s Suburbs

Suburbs of Philly like Montgomery County and Chester County have some of the toughest winters. Persistent freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall can hinder the health of your yard and landscape if not properly cared for. Winterizing your lawn, pools, and the rest of your yard can mitigate the effects of a cruel winter. Listening to good advice from professionals like those at Blue Tree Landscaping is the best thing you can do for your yard and home.

Of all the elements that might affect a landscape, the wind is perhaps one of the least thought of. In reality, though, a breezy day can do more than just ruffle the plants and leaves on the property. When outfitting a new space, refurbishing a current one, or taking precautions against the cooling weather, take these wind-conscious factors into consideration!

Consider Debris

This form of damage can come in all shapes and sizes. Mulch, gravel, sand from sandboxes, and loose dirt can be stirred up by wind and cause harm to surrounding surfaces. In addition, trash and outside materials can blow onto the property, making the problem more severe. Above all else, it gives the yard a dirty, tarnished appearance. Consider sealants or more durable materials for outdoor furniture such as coarse fabric for cushions and darker paint colors.

Watch The Accessories

Look after those umbrellas! Lighter outdoor features are in danger of blowing over or detaching from their bases. Awnings, pillows, cushions, and decorations can get scattered around by the wind. If the forecast calls for a blustery day, make sure everything is secure in their spot, or simply store them inside until the weather changes.

Get A Pool Cover

Patios and furniture can be cleaned, but fishing small pieces out of a swimming pool can be a real hassle. Invest in a pool cover that spans the length of the pool, and set it over the water on windy days. This will prevent any unwanted dirt blowing in and clogging the filters, and it will preserve the existing water as well. Take note of the backyard assets around the pool, too, such as potted plants and toys to make sure they don’t blow into the water.

Protect the Garden

Don’t let one day of bad weather undo the months of hard work you’ve put into your garden. Consider placing wire cages around taller plants to offer stability, or cover shorter plants with a light grate to block the wind. Depending on the layout, hedges or creative fencing can also deflect intrusive gusts that could cause harm, and it could add an eye-pleasing aesthetic to the yard on top of everything else.

Contact Blue Tree

Make sure your yard can stand up to the wind! At Blue Tree Landscaping, we pride ourselves on helping to craft sturdy, beautiful outdoor spaces that can stand up to the elements, especially wind. We can survey your home and its available space to determine what features will help it maintain its exterior. Contact us for a quote today!

The seasons are beginning to change, and with nature’s preparation for winter comes leaves and debris that need to be taken care of before it’s too cold and the weather is unpredictable. Any yard with a pool requires extra attention and care for fall, whether that pool is in use or not. Check out these measures to keep in mind for the coming season!

Take toys out

This might seem like an easy one, but once the pool’s temperature gets too low to use, you should clear the pool of any children’s toys or floating accessories so that they don’t sustain any damage. Floating chairs and drink holders should also be removed and stored away. Clean them with dish soap and water before bringing them inside, and be sure to deflate them for optimal storage. That way, they will be fresh and ready to enjoy for next summer’s festivities!

Use a pool cover

For further protection (and a potentially smoother cleanup) consider investing in a plastic cover or tarp for your pool. The full-coverage benefit will shield the water from debris caused by wind and storms and will additionally shield any underwater surfaces as well. This can also provide adequate protection in the summer months during heat spells and summer storms.

Check chemical levels

Everyone’s pool sits at a slightly different chlorine level, so be vigilant about checking yours. All other factors, including the pH and any saltwater materials, should be checked before the weather affects these levels too much. Temperature, sunlight, and animals infiltrating the water’s surfaces all have an effect on the water, but with a bit of surveillance, the pool will remain healthy beyond the fall months.

Pool surfaces

Before snow and leaves coat the ground, ensure that the pool’s foundation and coatings are intact. If any grout or surface tiles are chipping or cracked, replace or repair them in a timely manner before it gets too difficult to do so. Any protective seals put on furniture should be inspected as well, or simply moved out of the way. Stocking up on materials to fix or polish damages done by the weather is not a bad idea either.

When it comes to pool surfaces, trust the experts to take care of any problem that’s too big to handle. At Blue Tree Landscaping, we are committed to helping protect your yard in case of unpredictable weather. Our in-ground pool knowledge will help to ensure its lifespan year-round, so call us for any questions or a free quote today!

As we transition into the warmest times of the summer, the sun is beating down upon all outside surfaces. It can be difficult to maintain the condition of outdoor furniture, plants, and even hardscape details when the weather is so unforgiving. Don’t let your outdoor investments go to seed; here are some tips on upkeep for your yard’s accouterments that will help to preserve them year round!

Replace Furniture

This does not necessarily mean replacing the whole setup. If cushions or delicate furniture is left out in the sun for extended periods of time, it can sustain unsightly tears and faded colors. Visit a local seamstress to tend to tears, or consider cushion covers that will not only disguise damages but allow the freedom of redesigning current pieces to fit the season.

Tend To Foliage

The sight of dry, wilted plans can be a sad one! Do some research on the best options for the changing season, and whether to add to already existing ones or remove some completely. Regardless of replacing flowers or planting winter vegetables, any small change will have gardens and landscapes looking fresh.

Check the Pool

Summer is by no means consistent in terms of weather, and a pool can see the brunt of Mother Nature’s actions. Skimming the pool’s surface to remove dirt and debris is only the start of it. If the tiles or ceramic coating are chipped and cracking, drain the pool to perform necessary repairs. Be sure to notice the surface surrounding the pool as well; any cement or tile work that looks faded and cracked should be tended to immediately, for safety reasons.

Clean Up

Sometimes, all a space needs is a good cleaning. Pull any weeds or animal excrement that may be settling in the corners of the yard. For a deeper clean, invest in a power washer to get the dirt off the sides of the house and any patio or hard surface that needs a good scrub. Look at fences too, and see if vines or dirt can be removed for a cleaner look. Now is not the best time to replace sod or large lawn surfaces, but it is possible to keep current ones looking polished until next year’s replacement.

Contact Blue Tree

Let us help you clean up your space! At Blue Tree Landscaping, we pride ourselves on providing quality maintenance and upgrade services for homes of all shapes and sizes. Contact us today to get a quote on how to get your yard in the best shape it’s ever been in!

Keeping our kids safe and out of harm’s way around a swimming pool seems like a given, but what about our pets? Some of our furry companions cannot swim, or prefer not to engage in water. To eliminate any worries, here are some ways to take precaution against them sneaking in for an unsupervised swim.

Fence Them Out

The natural choice for keeping pets away is installing a fence that will stop them from walking into the pool and its surrounding area. Choose a fence that will cater to the pet’s size; a wrought-iron fence works well for larger dogs, but smaller animals such as cats, turtles, and various farm animals might need a more solid means of protection. Build the posts close together or with a thick material to optimize safety.

Wire Mesh or Wood

Wrap wire encasing around any existing fence to add a layer of protection for smaller animals. The design could be as simple as chicken wire, or a sleeker design from a home improvement store. Not only will this stop small pets from getting in, but creatures such as possums, squirrels, and rabbits will have a harder time entering the pool.

If the fence has yet to be built, consider a solid wood or plastic fence to surround the pool. The height can depend on the space available, and a simple latching system will make it easy to enter and exit throughout the day. The cost might be more in the long run, but in the winter months, that stable fence will hold up against harsher weather.

Add A Retaining Wall

For backyards with a hill, animals can climb up and around a ground fence and enter the pool area. By protecting the back of the pool with a sturdy foundation, animals of any size will have a harder time infiltrating that area. An additional fence can be built on top of this wall, to further protect against pests to the yard. Retaining walls can be customized to add to the aesthetic of the yard as well. You might consider tile work or stones that will stack and create a textured, unique surface to back the pool. Make it your own!

Contact Blue Tree

Let Blue Tree Landscaping help keep your four (or two) legged friends safe this summer! We specialize in hardscaping and preventative structures that will serve as functional, beautiful additions to any pool. Our team cares about your pets and your yard in tandem: contact us for a quote on your fence pool, or your next home improvement project!

It’s vacation time! While that might mean jetting off to a tropical excursion for some, others might not have the same plans for such an exotic getaway. Luckily, there are fun (and easy) ways to turn your yard into the ultimate staycation spot!

Tiki Torches

These festive decorations are easy to come by. Outdoor furniture outlets, home goods stores, and even home improvement places will all have the woven straw decorations that turn any yard into the perfect luau! Stick them into the ground around a pool deck or the path leading into the house, and set them ablaze after the sun goes down to keep the party going well into the night.

Lanterns

There are many options for hanging light fixtures that add another pleasing touch to any decor. Paper lanterns in a litany of colors are fun for parties, and permanent lanterns with cool, soft lighting are growing in popularity. Grab some mini tabletop lanterns for your next entertainment event, or take it a step further and get free-standing light structures that can be placed anywhere outside. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Tropical Plants

Since the summer months are short-lived, not everyone has the time to plant extravagant flowers that won’t last the year. Consider potted plants which can be relocated to different areas or even synthetic flowers that can be stored until next year’s heat wave. For beautiful, tropical choices, we recommend flowers with substantial roots and leaves, such as the Bird of Paradise flower.

Fabrics

Consider colorful pillows, seat covers, or tablecloths to spice up the decor. While it can get pricey to purchase seasonal, trendy furniture items and their accessories, covering existing decorations is a cost-efficient way to change it up. Aim for simplicity! In the summer, white and cream-colored cushions are stylish, and pops of color can be added in a variety of ways.

Music

No vacation is complete without the perfect playlist! Hook up speakers to an overhang or gazebo post to set the mood, no matter the occasion. As for the tunes, use services such as Spotify or Pandora to compile a list of soothing music that will boost the vacation feel for anyone listening.

Contact Blue Tree

Let us help you revitalize your space for the summer! Our team of experts at Blue Tree Landscaping is dedicated to providing quality landscaping, pool, and even decorative services to help any backyard thrive. Contact us to get a quote, and don’t wait any longer to treat yourself to some summer festivities!

It’s party time! The weather is perfect for entertaining, both indoors and outdoors. Here are a few entertainment essentials that are worth the investment:

Pool Toys

These are cheap, fun staples for any backyard. Grab a few inner tubes at your local dollar store, or upgrade to giant inflatable animals to hold more than one person. There are several options for practicality and entertainment with pool toys; if your child is learning to swim this summer, pool noodles and arm inflatables will help them learn to stay afloat. Better yet, floating basketball hoops and coolers will cater to older members of the festivities. Visit a pool supply store or shop around online to stock up.

Outdoor Television

Relax with the setting sun and watch your post-work movie outside! Televisions often offer protective coverings for weather-resistant enjoyment. They can be free-standing, mounted to a wall, or wired to an overhang or gazebo post for ultimate convenience. Add in surround sound and create a full system for an authentic theater experience.

For a makeshift experience, try this: get a projector and a white sheet. Hang the sheet on a retaining wall or fence, pop a movie into the projector, and set up chairs to face it. If a pool is present, float on inner tubes for a new take on ‘theater seats.’ Include snacks and popcorn for instant outdoor entertainment for everyone to enjoy!

Volleyball Net

One fun way to get a sweat going and enjoy the spirit of competition is incorporating sports into outdoor activities. If the yard has reasonable space for a makeshift court, invest in a net with easy setup and take down. It can be used for volleyball and badminton, among other sports, and it provides fun for sports lovers of all ages. If it has the adjustment capabilities, stretch it across a pool and play water ball!

Contact Blue Tree

Make sure the rest of your yard is up to snuff with Blue Tree Landscaping! We specialize in optimizing home space for every homeowner’s needs, from tiny back lots to expansive backyard spaces with room to play. Get advice on the best adornments for summer fun, in addition to year-round services that will keep your backyard in pristine shape for any entertainment. Contact our team to get a quote today!

The summer solstice, which marks both the first day of summer and the longest day of the year, is coming up on June 21st. Around this time, schools are out, people are taking vacations, and many folks are hoping to enjoy a nice dip in the pool! If your pool’s amenities are outdated or need fixing up, there are a few ways to do this in time for more festivities.

Clean the Grout

If the pool’s surrounding surface has tiles, the dirt buildup in the cracks can be unsightly. Scraping it out works, but this can be a huge hassle. A power washer will get rid of dirt and buildup, without having to replace any cement or artificial stone that surrounds your pool area. The power washer can be used for the rest of your surfaces as well, such as wood patios, resilient fences, and walls that need cleaning.

Inspect the Pool

Most pools have plaster or Pebble Tec surfaces coating the interior. With winter weather and the wear-and-tear of extended use over the years, these surfaces might be starting to show deterioration. You many want to refinish any surfaces that are chipped or stained before they are put to use. Often, a harsher surface begins to peek out from under the smooth plaster, and fixing this is a safety and liability issue that you should try to take care of early.

Perform Some Touch-Ups

After a harsh winter, the landscaping around your pool might need replenishing. Plant fresh flowers and vegetation to give a lively vibe to any space, and paint over any faded decorations or surfaces that could use a new coat. Check out couch and chair cushions as well: sunlight can cause fading of colors and patterns, and it might be time to replace anything that looks lighter or loses its texture.

Decorate

One of the easiest and most attainable means for improvement, decorating your pool area is a personal and fun process. It can be as simple as changing out plants or color schemes, or can encompass projects that are larger in scale. Consider swapping out decorative tile work, large furniture, and lounge pieces to stay current with styles and give your whole backyard the makeover it deserves.

Contact Blue Tree

Let the experts join you in your renovations! Blue Tree Landscaping is proud to offer hardscaping and decorative services for backyards of any size. Call today for a quote or advice on getting started. Summer won’t last forever, but with a few tweaks, any backyard can be revamped for months and years to come.

One of the best outdoor activities in the summer is taking a dip in the pool…assuming there’s one nearby to use! Whether your current pool is in need of updating, or you’re looking to install a brand-new backyard staple, there are many factors to take into consideration when looking into the process of getting a pool in your backyard. Here’s a general overview of things to keep in mind when researching details for planning

Create a Timeline

Right now, the weather is perfect for outside activities and the installation of outdoor landscaping. Different aspects of construction cannot be rushed, such as cement drying and laying surfaces. Since the summer months are approaching, vacations will be scheduled around this time as well. Be sure to plan early to get the services you need whenever is most convenient for you.

Consider Design

This goes beyond just the shape of the pool. There are many styles to choose from, such as infinity pools and various in ground designs. Certain hardscaping features like tile work, wall finish, and the surrounding ground surface should all be decided before proceeding with installation, as there are details that can add or detract from the overall image.

Choose Fun Extra Features Beforehand

External features are easier to implement later in the pool’s production. However, water slides, underwater bar stools, fountains, and similar details need to be decided on early in the timeline, in case they change the pool’s overall shape or estimated completion date. Take any fun additions into consideration and add them to the blueprints before starting construction.

Decorate

One of the most fun experiences in pool design is creating your own unique backyard features, and there is an abundance of technology on the market right now that will help create a truly one-of-a-kind pool. Lights and accessories can add to the aesthetic and be changed frequently for occasions and events. Consider color-changing lights, surrounding seating, and hidden sound systems that will make the pool the centerpiece for entertaining and home enjoyment.

Explore your options with Blue Tree! We are part of the process every step of the way, from initial planning to installation to putting the last touches on the finished product. Our team of experts will advise you on which courses of action to take to ensure that your pool is as picturesque and perfect as can be. Consider choosing us for a swimming pool project, and do not hesitate to contact us to get started!